Professional Trajectories, Job Satisfaction, and Perceived Leadership Impact of Doctor in Education Major in Educational Management Graduates
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.478Keywords:
Career Advancement, Educational Leadership, Graduate Tracer Study, Institutional Sustainability, Job Satisfaction, Leadership Impact, Program Effectiveness, Research Training, Transformational LeadershipAbstract
This study examined the professional trajectories, job satisfaction, perceived effectiveness, and leadership impact of Doctor of Education in Educational Management graduates of Bohol Island State University–Main Campus from Academic Years 2015 to 2020. Anchored on Career Construction Theory, Social Cognitive Career Theory, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, and Transformational Leadership Theory, the study employed a mixed-methods design using a structured survey questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The respondents were sixty EdD graduates, with selected graduates and employers or supervisors participating in the qualitative phase. Findings revealed that most graduates experienced career advancement after completing the program, with many moving from teaching or coordination roles to administrative and leadership positions. The graduates reported very high job satisfaction, particularly in work environment, professional growth, compensation and benefits, work-life balance, and alignment of job roles with academic preparation. The EdD program was perceived as very effective in curriculum content, research training, and leadership preparation. Correlation results showed that profile variables and professional trajectories had limited predictive influence, although institutional type and current leadership positions affected professional outcomes. Qualitative findings confirmed that the program strengthened reflective leadership, evidence-based decision-making, mentoring, professional effectiveness, and institutional contribution. The study recommends strengthening practical leadership training, field-based learning, mentorship, research application, policy analysis, digital integration, and institutional support systems. The study aligns with SDG 4, SDG 8, SDG 16, and SDG 17 by supporting quality graduate education, professional growth, institutional accountability, and stakeholder collaboration. Its sustainability impact lies in strengthening educational, institutional, socio-economic, and governance sustainability through evidence-based improvement of doctoral leadership preparation.
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